06/30/2026
JUNE 2026'S DISHONORABLE MENTION GOES TO DOYLE CONSTRUCTION OF OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON
Daniel Doyle of Doyle Construction (doylebuilds.com, Doyle Construction) recently posted a reel of himself killing a bat in what appears to be an unoccupied building he was in the middle of erecting, and then posing with his victim with his weapon of choice, while cravenly flashing a shaka.
The reel was subsequently removed, but not before it was captured and forwarded to Animal Law Offices, PLLC.
[An educational brickbat in honor of the fallen fledermaus]:
The following information is intended to inform, not formally accuse Mr. Doyle of anything. Such would be a decision made by law enforcement and prosecuting authorities.
Bats are protected species under Washington law and quite beneficial to the ecosystem, aside from being nonhostile to humans and quite adorable. Hunting them is illegal under WAC 220-200-100(3) unless they are "found in or immediately adjacent to a dwelling or other occupied building."
Even bats who fall within the exception may not be harmed in a manner that is in violation of Washington's anticruelty laws, particularly RCW 16.52.205(1), making it a felony to, except when authorized in law, intentionally (a) inflict substantial pain on, (b) cause physical injury to, or (c) kill an animal by a means causing undue suffering or while manifesting an extreme indifference to life, or forcing a minor to inflict unnecessary pain, injury, or death on an animal.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has authored an FAQ about bats, strongly encouraging the humane removal or exclusion of bats in ways that respect these beings' sovereignty. https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/living/species-facts/bats
Mr. Doyle assuredly had the skill to gently remove this solitary bat. He could have used his public platform to teach others stewardship, show professionalism, and exemplify ways to live in peace with, not in cruel antagonism to, other species with whom we share the Earth.
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Last month's dishonorable mention goes to Covington, Washington trucking/logistic company owner Igor Lytvynchuk, who has been prosecuted for throwing a rock at a monk seal in Lahaina, Maui.
